Teach English Abroad Blog

What does school truly teach beyond textbooks and exams? In this reflection, three Thai students offer an inside look at how education shapes not only their academic futures, but their character and identity. Through their voices, we see that Thai schools function as more than places of learning — they are spaces where discipline, ambition, cultural pride, and respect are carefully cultivated. From the belief that education determines one’s future, to the daily practice of courtesy and social harmony, these students reveal how Thai education prepares young people not just for university, but for life. Their perspectives offer a powerful reminder that schools reflect the values of the society they serve.

At the halfway point of my journey teaching in Thailand, I’ve realized this experience is about far more than lesson plans and classrooms. It is about adaptability, humility, courage, and connection. In this reflection, I share the five most important lessons I’ve learned so far, from learning to “be like water” in moments of uncertainty to saying yes to opportunities that push you beyond your comfort zone. This is not just advice for teachers in Thailand. It is a reminder that when you give your whole heart to a community, embrace growth, and choose courage daily, the experience will transform you in ways you never expected.

Read as Katie, a 2025 alum, shares her orientation experience in Dublin! Thinking of moving to Ireland through CIEE’s Teach in Ireland Program? Congrats! You are on track to making... keep reading

Read as Carolyn, a 2025 alum, shares her experience in CIEE’s Teach in Ireland program! This summer, I had the opportunity of teaching English at Maynooth University. My workweek ran... keep reading

Long time no blog! I’m so sorry for the radio silence. Life has been life-ing lately — school started, presentations and lesson planning kicked in, I got sick (more than... keep reading

Buenas! My name is Sara and I am so excited to be a part of CIEE’s Teach English in Spain program this academic year. About Me I was born and... keep reading

Hi everyone! My name is Megan and I am from Vancouver, Canada. Before I dive into sharing stories and tips about teaching abroad, I wanted to take a moment to... keep reading

¡Hola! My name is Katie Grisham, and I am from Ripley, Mississippi. In May of 2025, I graduated from Mississippi State University with a Bachelor's in Fashion Design & Merchandising... keep reading

Just when you think you’ve planned enough, there’s always something that unexpectedly comes up. This is a three-part blog – here’s the third thing that caught me by surprise with my move to Spain that can help you prepare for yours.

Just when you think you’ve planned enough, there’s always something that unexpectedly comes up. This is a three-part blog – here’s the second thing that caught me by surprise with my move to Spain that can help you prepare for yours.

Just when you think you’ve planned enough, there’s always something that unexpectedly comes up. This is a three-part blog – here’s the first thing that caught me by surprise with my move to Spain that can help you prepare for yours.

After graduating from university in 2024, I wasn’t sure which path to take but I knew I didn’t want to jump straight into a traditional career. Instead, I chose to teach English in Spain — and in this post, I’ll share why teaching English abroad might be the right decision for you too.

I wasn’t a teacher before teaching in Madrid. In fact, a lot of us weren’t. If you haven’t taught before, here’s exactly why you should do it abroad.

Meet the author—who I am, my "why," and what I'm looking forward to!

CIEE Teach Abroad & TEFL Alum Spotlight: Meet Meghan! I have totally become the annoying friend that won’t stop talking about their time abroad. In my defense, it was one... keep reading